Growing Up In the Valley April 2016 by Roanoke Valley Family Magazine

Growing Up Southwest & Central Virginia’s Premier Family Resource

In The Valley Volume 4, Issue 8 | April 2016 | FREE

Fit Family Challenge Get Healthy Win Prizes All For Free!

Community School’s Strawberry Festival Elmwood Park - May 6 & 7

JOIN US ON

APRIL 30, 2016 11:00 am – 4:00 pm AT

FREE FAMILY EVENT featuring…

VT CASSELL COLISEUM & DIETRICK FIELD

☀ Inflatables

☀ Sports Games

VT Healthy Kids Day® 2016

☀ Healthy Snacks

☀ Raffle Prizes

#VTHealthyKidsDay

☀ Martial Arts Demo ☀ Local Organizations ☀ Arts & Crafts ☀ Live Music & MORE For more information, email us at healthykidsday@vtymca.org. Contact us if interested in becoming a vendor and/or sponsor.

Editor’s Note

Growing Up In The Valley

Spring is finally here and is the time to sign up for the Fit Family Challenge, brought to you by Coca-Cola and Growing Up In the Valley. Your family can GET ACTIVE, EAT RIGHT, HAVE FUN and WIN great prizes simply by getting up and moving! You can earn points by doing anything from walking to soccer practice! There are also some great ways to earn extra bonus points by attending free classes offered by our local partners! These local partners include; Roanoke Valley YMCA, Play Roanoke, PlayFit StayFit, Ferguson Fitness, Launching Pad, Star City Skate Center, Super Kicks and many more! The entire list (as of March 28th) can be found on page 17. Starting on Page 14, you can meet our spotlight families and fitness team who will come along on your journey to get active by blogging on our website and Facebook pages to help motivate you and share successes and frustrations.

Publisher

Josh Eagan josh@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Dad

Editor

Andrea Eagan andrea@growingupinthevalley.com Anika and Evelyn’s Mom

Creative Director

Tracy Fisher tracy@growingupinthevalley.com Charlotte and Evelyn’s Mom

Director of Sales

Dee Reynolds dee@growingupinthevalley.com Aleyna’s Mom

Distribution

Leigh Anne Woods law@growingupinthevalley.com

Contributors

Clifford Jackson • Teresa Martin • Amanda Powers Rachel Robinson • Katie Lewis • Kevin Hurley Stefanie Weber • Jessica Farmer • Amanda Robinson

Last but not least, start the competition off right with our kickoff event at Star City Skate Center on May 1st! Earn bonus points for skating and other activities while at the event and meet all of our partners who are helping out with the Fit Family Challenge. We welcome reader comments, submissions and the support of advertisers.

We are excited to be bringing you this great competition and we look forward to getting fit with you and your family in 2016!

We reserve the right to refuse or edit any materials submitted to us that we deem inappropriate for our audience. Please include a self addressed stamped envelope with any submission to be returned. We do not accept responsiblity for unsolicited materials.

The Eagan Family

Growing Up In the Valley and Growingupinthevalley.com are published by MoFat Publishing. Growing Up In the Valley is published monthly. The views and the opinions expressed by the writers and advertisers do not necessarily represnt those of Growing Up In the Valley, it’s staff or contributors. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and although every effort has been made to present accurate information, we do not in any way accept responsibility for the accuracy of, or consequences from the use of this information or for the businesses and organizations presented herein. We urge all parents to confirm any information given herein and consult with a doctor or an appropriate professional concerning any information or question. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in part or in whole without the express written consent of the publisher.

Andrea, Josh, Anika and Evelyn

Contact Us Phone: 540-251-1660 Fax: 540-808-1568 Mail: P.O. Box 12263, Roanoke, VA 24024 Reach the Editor: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com Request Magazines: josh@growingupinthevalley.com Advertise: dee@mofatmedia.com Submit An Event: andrea@growingupinthevalley.com General Inquiries: info@growingupinthevalley.com

f T @GrowingUpMag C Share Your Photos With Us #GUITV

facebook.com/growingupinthevalley

@GUPinthevalley

From L to R -Anika and Evelyn after a beach day; the whole family at Kennedy Space Center; and the Eagan girls at Disney Springs.

In This Issue: Features 8 Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Plea

How to spot the signs of mental illness.

13 Fit Family Challenge

Find out how you can enter. Meet our spotlight families!

Health 10 Ask The Expert

AFC Doctors Express offers advice on urgent care

20 Diabetes: A Growing Concern

Learn more about this growing epidemic

Education 6 Ready for Kindergarten

What to look for in your child before heading to Kindergarten.

Family Fun 24 Recycled Flowers Reuse old magazines

18 Earth Day Mud Pie Recipe

Learn how to make this delicious treat.

Local Guide 31 Calendar 28 Kids Eat Free

On The Cover Saniyah Washington Photo by Kevin Hurley Photography

Education Station

Is Your Child

R e a d y for

Kindergarten? Article provided by: Smart Beginnings Greater Roanoke

Although the 2016-2017 school year is still a few months away, local elementary schools are beginning to register children for Kindergarten. Any child who will be five years old by September 30th, 2016 is able to enroll for Kindergarten this next fall. But being old enough isn’t always the same thing as being ready. Kindergarten readiness is important because research shows children who are ready for kindergarten are more

likely to succeed in school and in life. So how does a parent know if their child is ready or not? Smart Beginnings suggests parents think about the following types of readiness skills …

Can your child identify how objects are the same and how they are different?

(540) 342-4440 letspartyva.com 6

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Social & Emotional Skills

Can your child match and recognize basic colors and shapes?

Can your child tell someone their name (first and last) and their age?

Can your child talk about recent events, and tell what happened first, next and last?

Can your child take care of their own needs, such as toileting, washing hands and dressing?

Is your child curious about the world and interested in learning new things?

Is your child able to adjust to new situations without a parent being there?

Can your child pay attention and listen to a story for a short period of time?

Inflatables, Games, Tents, Concessions, Tables & More

Can your child repeat a simple pattern? (ex: red, red, blue - red, red, blue -)

Learning & Thinking Skills

Reading & Writing Skills

if your goal is a successful celebration, make Let’s Party your destination!

Can your child sort a set of objects by size or length (ex: puts blocks in order of length)

Can your child recognize letters of the alphabet and identify some beginning letter sounds? Can your child identify simple rhyming words? Can your child spell and write their first name on their own?

Math Skills Can your child count at least 10 objects? Does your child understand the concepts of “more” and “less”?

Does your child interact well with other children and adults? Remember, experts say no single or simple factor determines whether a child is ready for kindergarten. Instead, a child’s development needs to be looked at from several aspects. If you have concerns about your child, talk to your child’s preschool teacher or contact your local elementary school. For more information about the importance of school readiness, including tips for making sure your child will be ready for school, please visit www. smartbeginningsroanoke.org/parents, or call 540-283-2786.

WE ALL SHINE ON SUMMER CAMPS 2016

YMCA OF ROANOKE VALLEY

CAMP KIRK

SUMMER CAMPS 2016 YMCA OF ROANOKE VALLEY ymcaroanoke.org/camp

Swimming, swim lessons, field trips, lunches and snacks are included.

Mon-Fri 8:00am-6:00pm M: $115 / NM: $138* 9:00am-2:00pm M: $90 / NM: $113*

PRE-SCHOOL CAMPS – AGES 4-5

YOUTH CAMPS—AGES 6-7

TWEEN CAMPS – AGES 8-11

JUNE 6-10 PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOS JUNE 13-17 SECRET GARDEN JUNE 20-24 OUT OF THIS WORLD JUNE 27-JULY 1 KIDS IN THE KITCHEN JULY 5-8 HOLIDAY SCRAMBLE JULY 11-15 SUPER HERO SQUAD JULY 18-22 Y’S GOT TALENT JULY 25-29 H2O-WOW! AUG 1-5 MOVIE CRAZE AUG 8-12 Y OLYMPICS

JUNE 6-10 PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOS JUNE 13-17 SECRET GARDEN JUNE 20-24 JEDI EXPLORERS JUNE 27-JULY 1 KIDS IN THE KITCHEN JULY 5-8 HOLIDAY SCRAMBLE JULY 11-15 SUPER HERO SQUAD JULY 18-22 Y’S GOT TALENT JULY 25-29 H2O-WOW! AUG 1-5 MOVIE CRAZE AUG 8-12 Y OLYMPICS

JUNE 6-10 Y NINJA WARRIOR JUNE 13-17 SECRET GARDEN JUNE 20-24 JEDI EXPLORERS JUNE 27-JULY 1 Y MASTER CHEFS JULY 5-8 HOLIDAY SCRAMBLE JULY 11-15 Y TWEENS, ASSEMBLE! JULY 18-22 Y’S GOT TALENT JULY 25-29 H2O-WOW! AUG 1-5 TECH CRAZE AUG 8-12 Y OLYMPICS

CAMP SALEM

Each special camp or clinic theme includes water fun, games, arts & crafts and more!

CAMPS: Mon-Thu CLINICS: Mon-Wed 9:00-12:00pm M: $70 / NM: $87 9:00-2:00pm M: $90/ NM: $113

PRE-SCHOOL CAMPS—AGES 3-4

YOUTH CAMPS—AGES 5-7

TWEEN CAMPS—AGES 8-11

JUNE 13-16 JUNE 20-23 JULY 5-8 JULY 11-14 JULY 25-28

CLAWS, PAWS & JAWS STAR WARS & SPACE EXPLORER OCEAN COMMOTION TINY EINSTEIN KNIGHTS, DRAGON & PIRATES

MAGIC PLACE CAMPS—AGES 5-12 MAY 30-JUNE 3 JUNE 6-10 JUNE 13-17 JUNE 20-24 JUNE 27-JULY 1 JULY 5-8 JULY 11-15 JULY 18-22 JULY 25-29 AUG 1-5 AUG 8-12 AUG 15-19

BLAST OFF TO STAR WARS MINION MAYHEM ADVENTURELAND WELCOME TO SEUSSEVILLE PARTY IN THE USA MINECRAFT MADNESS Y CULINARY CLINIC WET N WILD GREEN THUMB ALOHA TO SUMMER MAD SCIENTISTS WELCOME TO THE JUNGLE

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Swimming, swim lessons, weekly field trips, breakfasts and lunches are included.

LEGO MANIA & MORE CLINIC KIDS IN THE KITCHEN CLINIC ART MANIA CLINIC SUMMER OLYMPIC CLINIC HIT THE ROAD CLINIC

Mon-Fri $125 registration fee 7:00am-6:00pm M: $100 / NM: $125 *sibling discounts are available

Health

A Mother’s Plea to Save

Her Son from the Throes of

Mental Illness: And Signs to Watch for in Your Teen or Young Adult By Kimberly Blaker

Regardless of our kids’ trials and

tribulations during childhood and into the early teen years, the furthest thing from any parent’s mind is that our young adult child might develop a serious mental illness. Unfortunately, it is an equal opportunity disease that can strike even model kids who have rarely experienced a difficult day in their lives. Just as kids are preparing to become independent adults is when serious mental illness (SMI) often strikes. The incurable brain diseases of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder combined strike one in every 25 people typically as they are entering adulthood. My son, Caleb, was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder (the combined illnesses of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder) three years ago, at the age of 19. His adult life has been spent inside a living hell—literally. The early stage was marked primarily by delusions and paranoia: there was a government conspiracy against him, Li’l Wayne and Drake were writing derogatory songs about him, and pimps were trying to kill him. But this was only the beginning of a downward spiral. The first year of treatment showed only mild success. Antipsychotics are relatively fast acting, and if monitored, can be quickly adjusted or changed. But with a severe shortage of psychiatric beds, lack of adequate federal and state funding for mental health services, and laws as sick as those who are ill—problems of every state in this country—he was in and out of the hospital within days, still in psychosis. Further hindering recovery, 8

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

“He is paranoid and lives in constant fear with the belief his family and friends want to kill him.” he was allowed only one 30-minute psychiatric appointment per month. There are two broader problems with treatment for the SMI in America, which are laws and funding. Laws were created decades ago to protect the rights of seriously mentally ill individuals without taking into account that those with SMI are often unaware of their illness due to a symptom called anosognosia, and are therefore unwilling to seek treatment. Moreover funding has dwindled severely. Hospitals have shut down in droves in recent decades while insufficient public funding has impeded development of adequate out-patient services and housing for mentally ill people. Important to note, it’s a medical fact each episode of psychosis and the longer in psychosis, the more damage done to the brain. The lack of timely, adequate, and appropriate treatment results in each episode becoming increasingly more severe reducing the likelihood of recovery. This has proven true for Caleb. A year into his illness, he received a message from a game of Scrabble to

cut off his ear or toe or to break a leg to save the world. In the middle of the night, I awakened to his blood curdling screams. He had jumped 15 feet from a tree, fracturing his back instead. Just prior to this feat, he attempted, unsuccessfully, to silence the commands. He branded his arm with a fork, a scar that remains today. He was admitted for psychiatric care, but released within 7 days with little improvement. Over the next two years, he was hospitalized with increasing frequency, always released within days. He is paranoid and lives in constant fear with the belief his family and friends want to kill him. He hallucinates I say such horrific things to him as, “I’m going to chop off your head”, or “I’ll bury you alive.” He has spent nights sitting on his bed prepared to bolt if I break down the door to kill him. Six months ago, the television told him he is Jeffrey Dahmer, and the President told him to kill me. My son isn’t violent. But statistics speak for themselves, and psychosis often leads to violent and tragic acts. It was a several day battle to get him hospitalized, and he was released in 3 days in the same condition.

Health For a couple months, though his psychosis was still present, he had at least improved. But this rarely lasts. With his paranoia that doctors, pharmaceutical companies, and his family are trying to poison him, he often refuses medication. Recently, Caleb took another downturn. He could not comprehend real conversations because the hallucinatory voices were so overpowering. He carried on arguments with these voices, told news anchors on TV to shut up because they were talking about him, and was angry with the Pope for something the Pope was doing to him. He repeatedly insisted he was traversing. As a result, there were now two of him, or maybe three, and he didn’t know which was the real him. He became confused and didn’t know where he was and pleaded with me to get him home. I would try to reassure him, “you are the real Caleb, and you are safe at home.” It is heartbreaking. But my son and I aren’t alone. This plays out for millions of seriously mentally ill people and their families day-after-day, week-after-week, and year-after-year as loved ones spiral further into the abyss. Legislation was introduced in June called the Helping Families in Mental Health Crisis Act, HR 2646, as well as other legislative proposals in recent months. HR2646 in particular makes several meaningful improvements to our ineffective mental health system. Family access to information about the diagnosis and prescribed treatments for their mentally ill adult loved ones has hindered families’ ability to protect and care for the sick member. This bill will clarify HIPAA so parents and caregivers of adult loved ones with SMI have access to necessary information. Also crucial, the bill will require states to authorize assisted outpatient treatment (AOT) for the state to receive Community Mental Health Service Block Grant funds, and expansion of civil commitment criteria. Other needs are also addressed including the shortage of psychiatric beds, greater use of criminal diversion

programs, greater emphasis on evidence-based care, and alternatives to institutionalization. This change, and more, is desperately needed for all the sons, daughters, mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers in our country suffering from serious mental illness—and for the countless family members who in the future will be struck by this dreadful fate.

Signs to watch for in your teen or young adult child It is sometimes difficult to recognize any of these illnesses developing because many symptoms are typical problems associated with the teen years. Though there is no cure for schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or bipolar disorder, recovery is possible for many with these brain diseases. But early detection is crucial to the prognosis for those with SMI. With schizophrenia the symptoms usually, though not always, develop gradually over months or even a couple years and show up as changes in behavior, thinking, and emotions. Changes in behavior can include poor hygiene, talking to oneself or odd speech, difficulty with making or maintaining friendships, substance abuse, unusual facial or body movements, unblinking vacant expressions, difficulty picking up on social cues, threatening behaviors, increasing isolation, and inappropriate emotional responses like laughing at something sad. Emotional changes are often seen in angry outbursts, extreme moodiness or irritability, and severe anxiety and fearfulness. Changes in thinking might include paranoia, obsessing about the past, visual or auditory hallucinations, delusional thinking (illogical and nonsensical ideas), difficulty with concentration or following a train of thought, or trouble distinguishing dreams or television scenes from reality.

a couple forms of bipolar, one in which mania is more severe. The less extreme state is called hypomania. With bipolar the mood swings in teens can change in the course of just a few hours or days. During adulthood the swings can last much longer, for weeks or months. Depressive symptoms to watch for include loss of interest in activities, decline in grades, difficulty concentrating, prolonged sadness or irritability, loss of energy, change in sleep patterns, change in food intake, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, no longer experiencing pleasure, suicidal thoughts, anxiety, worrying, and anger. The difference between mania and hypomania is primarily the severity of the symptom where mania is more extreme. Mania or hypomania can be seen in the following symptoms: decreased need for sleep, elated mood to exaggerated optimism, increased energy, increased confidence, extreme focus on projects, increased physical or mental activity, increased creativity or productivity, increased libido to hypersexual thoughts and behavior, difficulty concentrating, inflated sense of self-importance, risk taking and reckless behavior, racing speech and thoughts, grandiose delusions, or sometimes hallucinations. Schizoaffective disorder has the combined symptoms of both schizophrenia and bipolar. The symptoms therefore could be any combination of symptoms for the two distinct diseases. If your son or daughter exhibits signs, be aware that counselors and therapists do not have the educational and medical background to diagnose or treat these specific brain diseases. Seek an evaluation at a walk-in crisis center or from a licensed psychiatrist, or your family doctor who can make a referral.

Bipolar is a mood disorder with swings to opposite extremes. It is believed there may be a correlation between this disease and ADHD. There are April 2016 • growingupinthevalley.com

Health

Ask the Experts: AFC Urgent Care Does my child need a sports physical (pre-participation physical examination) even if it is not required by the sports organization? Getting an annual sports physical is recommended for all athletes to ensure that they are healthy enough to engage in the kind of physical activity that each sport requires. This assessment can also help prevent injuries and catch other physical ailments or limitations that could hinder their athletic ability.

When and where should I go for a sports physical? AFC Urgent Care offers sports physicals for $30 and they can be performed at any time during regular business hours with no appointment needed.

What If the doctor finds a problem during the physical? If the problem is not acute and cannot be addressed here, our doctors would refer the patient to a specialist who would work to correct the issue in the long run. AFC is an independent practice and consistently works with and refers to all other offices and clinics in the area including both hospital systems.

What are the most common sports related injuries in children and how do I avoid them? Broken bones, strains, sprains, and concussions are the most common sports related injuries. Athletic coaches are commonly trained to teach proper techniques to their players to help avoid injuries.

If my child does get hurt, how do I know when I should take them to urgent care or treat at home? Minor cuts, sprains and bruises which are considered first-aid can be treated at home. If the issue is feared to be more serious, it is always a good idea to have a medical professional take a look at what is going on and start the proper treatment to avoid any long term problems related to the injury.

How do I tell if my child has a simple cold or the flu? The common cold and the flu can often be mistaken for one another. Medical lab testing at an urgent care helps identify the sickness and determines whether or not it is contagious and medication is required.

Have a question you want to ask our panel of experts? Send it to info@growingupinthevalley.com 10

Growing Up In the Valley â&#x20AC;˘ April 2016

Several viruses have been common at my child’s school. How to I keep my child from getting sick?

Thank you for voting Faith Christian School “Best Private School”

Stressing the importance of constantly washing hands and practicing proper hygiene always helps slow the spread of germs that cause sickness. A healthy diet and proper hydration can also go a long way in keeping your child healthy.

My child had an accident. When should I seek emergency care? If the injury is thought to be life threatening, then emergency care at a hospital is necessary. However, over 60% of ER visits are not considered life threatening and could have been treated at an urgent care or a primary care office. Cuts requiring stitches and broken bones are often mistaken for needing emergency treatment when they can actually be taken care of at an urgent care for 1/3 of the cost.

About Our Expert AFC Urgent Care (formerly Doctors Express) is a walk-in medical clinic located on the lower level of Towers Shopping Center. Locally owned and operated by two physicians, AFC treats all acute illnesses and injuries. For the convenience of the patient, they are open 7 days per week with extended operating hours.

Imagine A School Where students learn the value of

SERVING OTHERS, working together, and

DEVELOPING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

(540) 725-8200

1409 S. Colorado St. Salem, VA

within the community in which they live.

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Growing Up May June 2016 2thirds page Vertical - Copy.indd 1

3/14/2016 1:26:31 PM

Provided by Laurissa Grubb from Blue Eagle® Credit Union

The phrase ‘checking account’ seems almost outdated, and certainly checks hold an odd place in our personal finances. In many ways, checks seem like relics from a previous era. We maybe write one or two checks a month (usually for rent or similar bill-paying situations where electronic payment simply isn’t an option). This is vastly different from only a few decades ago, when checks represented more than 85% of all non-cash retail payments. However, despite their decline in use, checks haven’t become completely extinct. We still keep our money in checking accounts, we still balance our checkbooks, and new banking technologies (mobile check imaging is one example) are being introduced to improve the process of paying by check. Whether or not checks are on their way out, there are still a couple of check related best practices that you need to be aware of in order to stay on top of your finances.

Holding Period

Checks often get a bad rap for the amount of time they take to clear. This is referred to as a holding period, or some may call it the float time. It can vary anywhere from a day to over a week, depending on your financial institution. The clearing process itself is made up of several steps. First, the financial institution that receives the check for deposit encodes its dollar amount into the machinereadable numbers along the bottom of the check. Then the physical check is fed through a machine that scans its data. That 12

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

data is then sent to a clearinghouse, which forwards the information to the financial institution that issued the check. The financial institution makes sure the check-writer’s account has sufficient funds (enough money) to make the payment—if it does, the transaction goes through, but if the account has insufficient funds (not enough money) to complete the transaction, the check bounces (is returned). Check clearing might sound like a long and overly complicated process, but it often is done very quickly these days thanks to technology. The introduction of mobile check imaging (also known as remote deposit capture) and other technologies is also helping to shorten the holding period. However, to avoid fees, bad checks, and other sticky situations, it’s still important for you to understand what the typical holding period is at your credit union or bank.

Responsibility

If you’re the check writer: the holding period, combined with some absentmindedness, can create a situation where you’re spending money in your account that you don’t actually have. For this reason, when you write a check, it’s best to be sure you already have money in your account to cover the check. Then go ahead and deduct the amount from your balance in your check register. If you’re the check receiver: keep in mind that when you deposit a check and the money shows up in your account, the check may not have cleared yet. Your financial institution may allow you to spend a portion or all of that deposited check, but if

it bounces, you would be the one responsible for repaying any funds you used before the check bounced. It’s a good practice to confirm that a check has cleared before spending it.

Balancing a Checkbook

Another best practice is to keep track of your transactions with a checkbook register. Traditionally, checkbook registers are those lined notebooks that come with your checks, but you can use any system that works for you, whether that’s a printable form, a digital spreadsheet or even an app on your phone. Recording your transactions as you go will give you a more accurate idea of your account balance and help you avoid unnecessary fees or overdraft charges. It also takes the guesswork out of writing a check or making an ATM withdrawal—you will know whether or not you have the money in your account to cover it. Comparing your checkbook register to your monthly statements also makes it easier for you to spot any errors or fraudulent charges. Start by recording all your checking account transactions in your checkbook register—debit card payments, checks written and received, and ATM withdrawals. Include online bill payments and direct deposits too— since those are sometimes automated, it can be easy to forget them. When you get your monthly statement, compare each transaction to your checkbook register and put a check mark next to each transaction that matches your statement. If items in your statement do not match your checkbook register, figure out why. Sometimes it’s an entry error or a slipup in your math. Laurissa resides in Roanoke with her family and is the Director of Marketing for Blue Eagle© Credit Union. She has worked in credit unions for more than 20 years, has a passion for financial education, and believes stronger individuals make a stronger community.

FIT CHALLENGE THE FIT FAMILY CHALLENGE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY

MAY 1-JUNE 26

Get Active. Eat Right. Have Fun! The Fit Family Challenge is a free healthy lifestyle program for families. With our partners, we’re motivating families to get moving and create healthier lifestyles by encouraging them to track their healthy habits, exercise more and participate in fun community events with their families. And it’s all free!

How does it work? To participate, families register online or at an event, or fitness class and start tracking activities for points online. The more they participate, the more points they earn and the more chances they have to win! Winners are determined by random drawing. The online tracker keeps a running balance of the minutes of activity for each participant, which is updated in real time on a statewide digital scoreboard, keeping communities engaged in a healthy competition between regions.

Fit Family Challenge Facts (from 2015) 5.8 Million minutes of activity logged 246,000 healthy habits recorded 15,400 people impacted 62% of survey respondents said their families ate healthier as a result of the Challenge.

Why Join Us? Parents today are challenged with health and wellness issues facing their families. Currently 17 percent of American youth are obese. 12 million American children and adolescents are obese. An overweight adolescent has a 70 percent chance of being overweight or obese as an adult.

Help us make a positive impact on these statistics. Obesity rates can be found at www.ncsi.org

Parenting magazines in each region support the program with editorial content including local Spotlight Families who share their eight-week healthy journey with readers. An expert panel of local professionals offers guidance along the way. Social media, community events and fitness classes, radio and television spots also support the Fit Family Challenge.

Magazine Partners KENTUCKY Lexington Family Today’s Family NORTH CAROLINA Carolina Parent Charlotte Parent Piedmont Parent Wilmington Parent WNC Parent

SOUTH CAROLINA Lowcountry Parent Palmetto Parent Upstate Parent TENNESSEE Knoxville Parent Nashville Parent VIRGINIA Growing Up in the Valley

www.MyFitFamilyChallenge.com April 2016 • growingupinthevalley.com

Get Active.

The Campagna Family Timothy: The best nine-year-old on the planet. He’s in the third grade and reads and writes and draws and solves math problems.

Where are you and your family from?

Eat Right.

I’m from St. Louis, Missouri (Go Cardinals!) and my husband is from Boston (Go Red Sox!) Timothy is from Guatemala and Charlie is from Ethiopia. Mitzy the wonder pup is from the Roanoke Valley SPCA. We moved to Roanoke in 2008, and fell in love with the area immediately. The kind people! The diversity of cultures! The mountains! The restaurants! The museums! We thought Roanoke would be a temporary stop on Joe’s career path, but Roanoke is now home. Tell us how you and your husband met.

Charlie: The best five-year-old on the planet. He’s in preschool. He runs and jumps and plays and conducts death-defying feats that scare the bejabbers out of his parents. Also, he doesn’t like to wear pants. We’re working on that issue. Mitzy the wonder pup: She’s still a puppy and her hobbies include peeing in inappropriate places and chewing on our shoes. What are your hobbies? Peg: Reading, writing, sorting Tupperware. Because I will be that person with the organized Tupperware drawer. Joe: Cycling, watching the Red Sox/Celtics/ Patriots. And then whimpering when they lose. (Don’t tell him that I told you that he whimpers. Okay?)

Have Fun.

At church. Really! We both belonged to the Young Professionals group attached to the Boston Catholic Archdiocese. I served on the committee for Catholic Charities and Joe sang in the Archdiocesan choir. (Yes, he’s a choir boy. Tease him about it. He llllooooovvvvveeesss that.)

Why did you sign up to be a spotlight family?

Tell us the names, ages and occupation (or grade and favorite school subject) of all members of your family.

What are your goals for this challenge? Why?

Peg: Forty-something-and-traveling-at-a-high-velocity-toward-50. Marketing/Communications Director. Joe: Forty-something and aging much more gracefully than his wife. Senior Manufacturing Engineer/Six Sigma Black Belt.

We want to be a physically fit and healthy family. Since our boys come from diverse backgrounds, they face unique health challenges.

Learn healthy habits as a family. Joe and I think that the boys will be more willing to give up unhealthier habits if they actively participate in the changes. Also, when we give them vegetables and fruits and try to be healthy, they laugh at us and then ask for Cinnamon Sugar Bomb cereal for dinner.

We need to get back on track. What changes are you planning to make as a family to meet those goals? Why? First, we’ll cut out sugar. This is hard because we’re addicted to Homestead Creamery ice cream. And we like cookies. Second, we’d like our kids to eat more vegetables. This is hard because vegetables aren’t generally coated in sugar and artificial flavors and dyes. What do you look forward to doing in the challenge? We want to find ways to be active as a family. Right now, we go the YMCA where I run on the treadmill or join a Zumba class, Joe plays basketball or hits the bikes and the boys go to Child Watch. (Yay Child Watch!) Sometimes, we’ll hang out at the pool. But mostly, we go to the YMCA and split up to do our own thing. We’d like that to change. How can we be active together? Any other information you wish to share? You probably know us by sight. We’re the really loud family in Kroger or WalMart. The boys are in one aisle and I’m yelling “NO! TIM! O! THY!” and “NO! CHAR! LEE!” loudly. By the time we get to the checkout lanes, the shoppers and staff know their names. We’re almost certain they throw a goodbye party for us ten minutes after we leave the store. And there was that one time I forgot their names (remember, I’m forty-something-going-on-fifty) and started calling them by their birth countries (Guatemala! Ethiopia!). On a Senior Citizen Tuesday. At Kroger. Before a snowstorm. Don’t judge.

Connect with us

stay up to date & be the first to know about our deals

540-404-9235

1300 Intervale Drive, Salem VA, 24153

Launchingpadsalem.com 14

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Where are you and your family from?

I grew up in Pennsylvania and my husband grew up in Ohio. Both of our families moved here to Virginia in 1996 when we were both in high school. (Salem for me and Cave Spring for Mike). We didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t meet until we were in our mid 20s. Why have you chosen to raise your family here?

Tell us how you and your husband met.

We met at church bible study one summer. After being friends for awhile, we started dating and after dating one year, we got married. We had a small wedding outside with our family members.

Rachel age 33. Works full time as a corporate office manager for Affordable Corporate Suites which is a locally owned extended stay hotel.

water. What are your hobbies?

Rachel: online fitness and book blogger at www.EmpowerMoms.net, reading, scrapbooking, crafts. Mike: gardening, video games, wood refinishing. Steven: video games, sports, reading. Zachery: legos, gardening with dad, arts and crafts, any activity outside. As a family: yard work, volunteering at church, walking at the park, playing family board/card games. Why did you sign up to be a spotlight family?

To find things we enjoy doing together as a family to stay active. To help each other with our fitness goals, try new fitness things and learn more about healthy eating choices.

What changes are you planning to make as a family to meet those goals?

Every Sunday, we will pick one day that week to do a family workout together and decide different activities to do each week. We will also do our food planning and cooking to prepare us for the upcoming week. We already cook our meals at home and pack our meals for work/school. What do you look forward to doing in the challenge?

Working together as a family with trying new fitness routines, finding activities we can all enjoy, and recipes.

What are your goals for this challenge?

Have Fun.

Tell us the names, ages and occupation (or grade and favorite school subject) of all members of your family.

Mike age 33. Stay at home dad and part time package handler at the airport in the evenings. Steven age 14, 8th grade. Favorite class is band. Zachery age 5, preschool. Favorite activity is coloring at school.

Exercise together at least once per week. Find workouts we enjoy doing separate at least 4 times a week. Keep a food diary so we can focus on eating from all the food groups. Drink lots of

Free Kids Meal

4913 Grandin Rd. SW Roanoke 1716 W. Main St. Salem 2221 Crystal Spring Ave. SW Roanoke 3737 Challenger Ave. Roanoke

6499 Williamson Rd. Roanoke 323 E. Virginia Ave. Vinton 2104 Wards Rd. Lynchburg 1353 S. Main St. Blacksburg

Bring this ad in and receive one free kids meal with the purchase of each adult meal. Dine in only. Valid for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Expires 3/30/2016 Coupon Code GUITV2

April 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ growingupinthevalley.com

Eat Right.

We have stayed here in Roanoke because of our current jobs and both of our families live here. We bought our first home together almost 3 years ago after renting for awhile. We like this area and everything: the parks, libraries and community have to offer our family.

Get Active.

The DeVaughn Family

Get Active.

Cal Buck - YMCA Personal Trainer

Eat Right.

As a former collegiate athlete, Cal Buck learned about and enjoyed the benefits of an active lifestyle so much that he decided to make it a career. Cal has been the Wellness Director at the Kirk Family YMCA in downtown Roanoke for three and half years. He became a Certified Personal Trainer at the National Academy of Sports Medicine and was a medical missionary and lifestyle coach for 12 years at Wildwood Lifestyle Center and Hospital. Being a part of the Fit Family Challenge is really excit“ ing,” said Buck. “I love being able to share the fundamentals of fitness and build a foundation for a family to grow from. Knowing that what I share with them can

become a part of a new legacy within their family is priceless. Being healthy will pay dividends for years to come.” ach family has it’s own unique needs, but here are two E great tips that Cal suggests all families can use to stay fit and healthy: Making goals and assigning roles. With each goal, should come some responsibility for each member. That is a critical component to the success of the entire group. This fosters buy in and support (encouragement) when fatigue or disappointment creeps in. Shopping Together. This brings creativity to the kitchen. Having each member pick elements of the healthy meal will not only challenge their taste buds, but also encourage additional skills, like simple food prep. These things pay off in the long run, with both fitness goals and saving a little money.

Kayla Williams Dietician

Have Fun.

“It’s been a fast and exciting year combining two parttime jobs into a full time schedule. Since July 2015, I have been working as a clinical dietitian at the Salem VA Medical Center as well as Fresenius Dialysis Center in Franklin Co. Before July, I worked as a nutritionist for the WIC Program at the Roanoke City Health Department for four years. From infants to the elderly, food affects everyone on a daily basis, which is what I love about nutrition! As an only child, I grew up with a mother who struggled daily to fight a chronic disease. By helping her and being by her side, I developed a deep-rooted passion for helping others. Since graduating from James Madison University, I

am so grateful for the opportunities I have been given to impact such a varied population. Aside from work, in my spare time, I enjoy soccer, running, hiking and spending time with my family in Salem.”

ST. ANNE’S EPISCOPAL DAY SCHOOL IS NOW ENROLLING FOR THE 2016-2017 SCHOOL YEAR! Half – day preschool classes: 18 months to 5 years Parent’s Day Out program: 18 months to 30 months

We are located next to Salem Public Library Please call 389.4087 We nurture every child in a Christ centered program. 16

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Get Active.

FREE Fit Family Challenge Activities In order to attend these activities, you must register online at myfitfamilychallenge.com

Earn 100 Bonus Points Per Class! For times and more info visit growingupinthevalley.com/FFC Star City Skate Center Salem YMCA Kirk YMCA Ferguson Fitness Launching Pad PlayFit StayFit Super Kicks Launching Pad Salem YMCA PlayFit StayFit Wasena Park Ferguson Fitness PlayFit StayFit Kirk YMCA Ferguson Fitness PlayFit StayFit Salem YMCA Launching Pad Super Kicks Launching Pad PlayFit StayFit Kirk YMCA PlayFit StayFit Ferguson Fitness Kirk YMCA

April 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ growingupinthevalley.com

Have Fun.

Roller Skating Family Swimming Y-Arcade Family Boot Camp 30 Minute Jump Time Move It Monday Karate Class 30 Minute Jump Time Family Swimming Fitness Skilltastic Scavenger Hunt Family Boot Camp Hump Day Y-Arcade Family Boot Camp Strong Arms Family Swimming 30 Minute Jump Time Karate Class 30 Minute Jump Time Flashback Friday Family Swimming Relay Fun Family Boot Camp Family Swimming

Eat Right.

Sunday, May 1 Sunday, May 1 Friday, May 6 Sunday, May 8 Monday, May 9 Monday, May 9 Wednesday, May 11 Thursday, May 12 Sunday, May 15 Tuesday, May 17 Saturday, May 21 Sunday, May 22 Wednesday, May 25 Friday, May 27 Sunday, May 29 Thursday, June 2 Sunday, June 5 Monday, June 6 Tuesday, June 7 Thurssday, June 9 Friday, June 10 Friday, June 10 Saturday, June 18 Sunday, June 19 Friday, June 24

Earth Day Mud Pies Create a fun and simple dessert to celebrate Earth Day! Use chocolate pudding, shaved chocolate, chocolate covered peanuts and crushed oreo cookies to create your mud. Scoop into small dishes and complete the dirt look with gummy worms.

Growing Up In the Valley â&#x20AC;˘ April 2016

WILL SOON BECOME

Same Local Ownership. Same Great Doctors and Staff. Same Insurance Plans and Co-Pays. Same Quality, and Convenience

540.774.0000 | afcUrgentCareRoanoke.com Towers Shopping Center | 602 Brandon Avenue SW #222, Roanoke, VA 24015

A little of your time can change a life. Learn about becoming a CASA volunteer at roact.org, call us at 344-3579, or email Holly.Peters@roact.org.

Health

Diabetes: A Growing Concern how this lifelong condition is affecting children and their families Article by Amanda Powers

Diabetes can be both debilitating

and life changing, especially for children. For those diagnosed in childhood, this serious condition can have lasting effects. There are two types of diabetes, Type A and B. Type A diabetes is the most commonly found in children. It is caused by the body’s inability to produce the needed insulin. However, Type B has also begun to affect the lives of children across the United States. Type B diabetes is caused when a person’s body does not produce insulin properly or does not produce enough for their body’s needs. The complications of Type B diabetes areoften more prevalent as a person ages. It is also the most preventable of the two types. Although Type A diabetes is more common in children than Type B, sadly, both forms of diabetes are on the rise.

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Scientists are unsure how exactly diabetes comes to affect some children and not others, especially Type A diabetes. The chance of developing diabetes at any point in life likely depends on several things including genetics, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Although diabetes may not be able to be completely avoided by some children and adults, there are things that can be beneficial for parents to consider. Since Type A diabetes is unpreventable and the most commonly found diabetic condition in children, it is important

Nearly 20,000 children are diagnosed with Diabetes every year.

Health to keep your child’s pediatrician informed if you have any concerns. Early screening and detection of Type A diabetes will provide better outcomes for the children whose lives are affected by this lifetime condition. Once a child receives such a diagnosis, parents can advocate more appropriately for their children; assuring they get the care and nutrition they need to avoid further issues from their diabetes. Although Type B diabetes is less common in children, the growing obesity trend in the United States has put it on the rise. Obesity at any age can increase the chances of struggling with Type B diabetes. Just as with the parents of children who are diagnosed with Type A, parents can be the best advocate for their children. It is important for the whole family to make lifestyle modifications that encourage good health. Healthy eating and exercise are key to wellness, with or without diabetes. What is done in the early years of life can have a major effect on one’s life and even on their future. In fact, poor habits causing obesity in childhood are correlated with insulin resistance, the main cause of diabetes. There is good news. Doctors and researchers are focusing on this ever growing and common condition in children. New medications and medical devices are being tested and released to help reduce the effects of this lifealtering condition on children’s lives. At this point in time, management of this condition is tolling on the life of both children and families facing diabetes. It can be stressful and overwhelming, but families are not alone.

If you or a loved one is dealing with the treatment or effects of diabetes, you can find more information, make connections, and find local events through the American Diabetes Association. You can visit their website and read more about diabetes and its effects on children, adults, and their families. There is also more information on preventing Type 2 diabetes in children. The website also provides a useful resource for understanding the treatment of both Types of diabetes. Even if you are not personally affected by this condition, there are plenty of opportunities for advocacy on the website as well. As with anything that effects our country’s children, it takes the voices and power of adults to make sure their needs are heard.

More happens here.

More writing

You can find the American Diabetes Association at www.diabetes.org. Or, you can also call for more information at 1-800-DIABETES to speak with one of their representatives.

More performing

1 out of 4 adults don’t know they have Diabetes

More one-on-one More affordable than you might think. Now offering Tailored Tuition, a program designed to meet your family’s unique financial position. To learn more, please visit www.northcross.org/affording or call Amy Jackson, Director of Admission, at 540-989-6641.

April 2016 • growingupinthevalley.com GUITV_More_ThirdPage_January2016.indd 1

12/23/15 10:12 AM

Locations Throughout Southwest and Central Virginia Roanoke - Valley View Roanoke - Tanglewood Blacksburg Christiansburg Lynchburg - Wards Road Lynchburg - Lakeside

We Repair While You Watch iPhones • iPads • iPods

701 Brandon Ave Roanoke Va, 24015 (540) 339-6935

Do You Love to Sing? Come, Sing with us and join our nationally recognized, 280 voice choir. 3 Training Choirs and a Concert Choir Shaping children’s voices and building character since 1987.

RVCC Auditions

May 9 & 12, 3:30-8:30 May 16, 4:00-7:00 duPont Chapel, Hollins University Auditions for boys and girls ages 7-17

Singers should come prepared to sing; “My Country Tis of Thee” first verse Short song of your choice, about 1 minute. Schedule an audition: Call or text: 540-Rchorus Email: auditions@childrenschoir.com

childrenschoir.com/auditions

Keeping Babies Safe While They Sleep KOHL’S INFANT SAFE SLEEP PROGRAM For parents, keeping our children safe is a top priority. But that doesn’t just mean trying to prevent bumps or bruises. We also need to protect them while they sleep. On average, an infant dies in an unsafe sleep environment every three days in Virginia. That’s why Carilion Clinic Children’s Hospital is committed to helping keep babies safe through the Kohl’s Infant Safe Sleep (KISS) program. When it comes to infant safe sleep, always remember the A, B, Cs.

A B C

Alone A baby should always sleep alone in a crib, never in a bed with parents or other children. Back

Babies should always be placed on their backs while sleeping.

Crib

Cribs should have a firm mattress, tight-fitted sheet, and be free of blankets, stuffed animals, pillows, or bumper pads.

In partnership with Kohl’s Cares, we’re offering classes to parents, in both the Roanoke and Lynchburg communities, who are in need of a safe sleep environment. For more information, please call 800-422-8482 or visit CarilionClinic.org/kiss.

This program is made possible through the purchase of Kohl’s Cares® merchandise at local Kohl’s stores.

J2532_01 TMA KISS 2015 Ad_4 625x9 5.indd 1

11/18/14 9:20 AM

Recycled Flowers

1 2

Cut your choice of paper into strips about 1” in width. You will need about 8 strips for each flower. Punch three holes in the strip, one in the middle and one on each end.

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Thread about an inch or less of one end of the pipe cleaner on to a button and twist it so the button is secure.

Thread the other end of the pipe cleaner through the middle and each side hole of a paper strip and slide

the strip down towards the button. Continue with remaining strips.

Slide all the paper strips to the end with the button and twist the pipe cleaner to hold them in place. Position the petals to fill any gaps and you’ve made a beautiful flower!

Put the memories of Old Man Winter behind us and start thinking about summer sun and fun. Our energetic staff has an exciting collection of summer camps that will keep your youngsterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mind and body actively entertained all summer long. From soccer and lifeguarding to photography and outdoor sports, we have an engaging camp opportunity for every walk of life. For information about all of our summer camp opportunities, call (540) 853-2236 or visit PlayRoanoke.com/CAMPS.

Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll Move You!

Discover Your City Camp (ages 11-15) | Summer P.L.A.Y. and Half Day Afternoon Adventure Camps (grades K-5) Soccer Camps (ages 2-16) | Art & Photo Camps (ages 10-13) | Outdoor Camps (ages 8-13) | Lifeguarding (ages 11-14)

Soar & Seaze the difference

Join today or refer a friend & you could win a Cruise! Ask us for details & get entered today! Experience new heights!

BlueEagleCreditUnion.com | 540.342.3429 or 800.342.3429

Membership eligibility required. This credit union is federally insured by the National Credit Union Administration.

The Guide

Roanoke

Kids Eat

Free! Everyday Mama Maria’s 11 AM - 2 PM 3 & under free buffet with paid adult W. Main St., Salem (540) 389-2848 Golden Corral All Day 3 & under free buffet with paid adult 1441 Towne Square Blvd., Roanoke (540) 563-8826 The Great 611 Steak Company All Day 3 & under, 1 child buffet per paid adult 3830 Franklin Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-4675 Shoney’s All Day 4 & under, free kids meal with adult entree purchase. Drink not included 2673 Lee Highway, Troutville (540) 992-6400 Lil Cucci’s All Day (Closed Sunday & Monday) 10 & under, 1 child per adult meal 1396 Roanoke Rd., Daleville (540) 966-5923 Monday Country Cookin 4 PM - Close 10 & under, 2 children per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke (540) 774-0199 Famous Anthony’s 3 PM - Close 1 child per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke, Salem, & Vinton (540) 362-1400 McAlister’s Deli 5 PM - Close 2 children per paid adult 2063 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 204-4407 28

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

Choose from over 3 5 restaurants for an affordable family night out on the town! G r o w i n g u p i n t h e v a l l e y. c o m / K i d s - E a t - F r e e Buffalo Wild Wings 4 PM - 9 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations (540) 725-9464 IHOP 4 PM - 8 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289 Brit and Bud’s Specialty Subs 6 PM - 8 PM 12 & under eligible for half off kids meal 4208 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 206-3684 El Rio Mexican Grill All Day 10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 4208 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 685-4343 Firehouse Subs All Day 11 & under, 2 children per paid adult combo,dine in only 800 University City Blvd, Blacksburg (540) 961-0371 Tuesday Brambleton Deli 11 AM - 9 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 3655 Brambleton Ave., Roanoke (540) 774-4554 Denny’s 4 PM - 10 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult All Locations Roanoke & Salem (540) 389-5074 Macado’s 4 PM - 9 PM 12 & under, $1 child meal per paid adult All Locations in Roanoke & Salem (540) 776-9884 Town Center Tap House All Day 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 90 Town Center St., Daleville

(540) 591-9991 The Barbecue Grill All Day 10 & under, 1 child per paid adult 126 E Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 857-0030 Firehouse Subs All Day 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Colonial Ave, Town Square & Salem only (540) 345-3131 Pizza Hut 5 PM - Close 10 & under, free buffet per paid adult 1016 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 362-3834 Ruby Tuesday 5 PM - Close 11 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View & Electric Rd. Locations (540) 265-9301 Wednesday Dogwood 4 PM - Close 10 & under, per paid adult 106 E. Lee Ave., Vinton (540) 343-6549 The Quarter All Day 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult 19 Salem Ave., Roanoke (540) 342-2990 Pizza Pasta Pit 4 PM - 9 PM 1 child per paid adult. Drink not included. 1713 Riverview Dr., Salem (540) 387-2885 IHOP 4 PM - 8 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289 Thursday CiCi’s Pizza

The Guide

All Day 10 & under .99 cents child buffet per adult buffet All Locations, Roanoke (540) 344-7711 The Roanoker 4:30 PM - Close 12 & under, 2 children per paid adult 2522 Colonial Ave., Roanoke (540) 344-7746 Jerry’s Family Restaurant 4 PM - Close 6 & under, 1 child per adult meal purchase 1340 E. Washington Ave., Vinton (540) 343-4400 Friday See Everyday Deals! Saturday Famous Anthony’s 12 PM - Close limit 1 kids meal per adult All Locations Roanoke, Salem, Vinton (540) 362-1400 Steak n’ Shake All Day

12 & under 1 free per paid $8.00 adult 1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825 Tokyo Express 11 AM - 3 PM 4 & under free buffet per paid adult 1940 W Main St., Salem (540) 389-6303 IHOP 4 PM - 8 PM 12 & under, 1 child per paid adult Valley View Location only, Roanoke (540) 265-4289 Sunday Pizza Den 5 PM - 8:30 PM 10 & under free buffet per paid adult buffet and drink purchase All locations Roanoke, Salem (540) 389-1111 Local Roots 5 PM -9 PM 12 & under eat for free (family style meal) with adult purchase 1314 Grandin Rd., Roanoke (540) 206-2610

Ragazzi’s 11 AM - 4 PM 10 & under w/paid adult 3843 Electric Rd., Roanoke (540) 989-9022 T.G.I.Fridays All Day 12 & under 1 w/paying adult 4869 Valley View Blvd., Roanoke (540) 362-1475 Jimmy V’s Restaurant All Day 4 & under kids meal only $2.50 3403 Brandon Ave., Roanoke (540) 345-7311 Steak n’ Shake All Day 12 & under 1 free w/paying $8.00 adult 1309 Hershberger Rd., Roanoke (540) 400-8825

Kids Eat Free Inquiries andrea@growingupinthevalley.com

Editor’s note: Restaurant deals change quickly and often without notice. Growing Up in the Valley strongly recommends calling ahead to confirm any deal listed. This listing is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee a discount.

Bring this ad in for a

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4370 Starkey Road, Suite C Roanoke, VA 6220 Peters Creek Rd, Roanoke VA 490 S. Main St. Rocky Mount, VA

roanokevalleyortho.com 540.563.1640 29

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

April 2016 • growingupinthevalley.com

Thursday, April 14, 7:30 PM Friday, April 15, 7:30 PM Saturday, April 16, 3 PM

Teatro Hugo & Ines Short Stories

“…performer-magicians who make the simple sublime.” –San Francisco Examiner Teatro Hugo and Ines create a cast of characters from knees, feet, hands, elbows, and a handful of props. Meet a parade of memorable characters who play out poetic moments of daily life. Recommended for ages 8 and older $20 general admission, $10 students with ID and youth 18 and under. MOSS ARTS CENTER www.artscenter.vt.edu | 540-231-5300 190 Alumni Mall, Blacksburg, VA

The Guide

Family Event Calendar

See our full event calendar online at growingupinthevalley.com/calendar

Ongoing Events

Little Learners: Thursdays at 10:30 AM Great Artists: Fridays at 4 PM Included in regular admission Ages 5 and under

Vinton Dogwood Festival April 27 - May 1 Downtown Vinton All Ages Free Parking fees may apply vintondogwoodfestival.org Kid Yoga Life in Balance Counseling & Wellness Center 1st & 3rd Saturdays 11 AM - 11:45 AM Ages 5-9 $8/class Toddler Programs Amazement Square Museum, Lynchburg Toddler Tales: Tuesdays at 10 AM Baby Meet & Greet: Wednesdays at 11 AM

Spectacular Saturdays Taubman Museum, Roanoke 10 AM - 5 PM All ages Free admission Sunday Samplings Imagination Station, Roanoke Every Sunday, 12 PM - 5 PM Free All Ages

Saturday • April 16 Blue Ridge Kite Festival Green Hill Park, Roanoke 10 AM - 4 PM Free All Ages TAP Headstart Fun Day Washington Park, Roanoke 10 AM - 2 PM Free All Ages

Blue Ridge Kite Festival Green Hill Park April 16 10 AM - 4 PM FREE

Birthday Parties • Group Events • Glow in the Dark Parties • Fundraisers

Trampolines & So Much More!

Basketball • Dodgeball • Jousting Pit • Fidget Ladder Pit • Airbag Pit Launch Tower • Arcade With Redemption Prizes • Bumper Cars Snack Bar • Lounge With Free Wifi • Electronic Lockers • 5 Party Rooms

540-404-9235 L J Launchingpadsalem.com I 1300 Intervale Drive, Salem VA, 24153

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

April 2016 • growingupinthevalley.com

MADD Roanoke 5/7/16 9am 502 19th St SE Roanoke- Fallon Park

WE WALK for those who no longer can, and alongside those who are learning to walk again. WE WALK with supporters who share our vision of no more drunk driving victims. WE WALK because together we will end drunk driving.

walklikemadd.org/roanoke 804.353.7121

10-4PM Free Admission Free Parking

Free Kites* Free Kids T-shirts*

Free ice-cream provided by Freedom First Credit Union* Children must be accompanied by adults, first come first serve, while supplies last, pets are prohibited at this event.

The Guide

Mission Fest St. Philip Lutheran Church, Roanoke 7 AM - 2 PM Free, Donations accepted All Ages Roanoke Valley Comicon Tanglewood Mall, Roanoke 10 AM - 4 PM All Ages $5/Person 10 & under free with paid adult

Sunday • April 17 Children’s Sunday Family Festival Penn Forest Worship Center, Cave Spring 11 AM - 3 PM All Ages Free

Saturday • April 23 Big Lick Kid Fest Miles for Miracles 5K Rivers Edge Sports Complex, Roanoke 9 AM All Ages $30/person

Earth Day Roanoke Festival River’s Edge Complex, Roanoke 10 AM - 3 PM All Ages $5/person Salem Community Color-AThon Salem High School 9 AM All Ages $35/person Free/5 & under

Friday • April 29 Tyler Perry’s Madea On The Run Berglund Center, Roanoke 8 PM Tickets start at $59 Parking $5

join us for

SUMMER

CAMP

FUN! Classes begin

June 20th!

Call 540-400-7795 or go online to register today!

More details online: 34

Growing Up In the Valley • April 2016

ACTING SINGING

DANCING

FUN!

roanokechildrenstheatre.org

Saturday • April 30

Friday • May 6

Party for the Planet Mill Mountain Zoo, Roanoke 11 AM - 4 PM All Ages Regular admission applies

Roanoke Symphony Orchestra - The Music of Led Zeppelin Salem Civic Center 7:30 PM All Ages Tickets start at $32

Impractical Jokers Berglund Center, Roanoke 8 PM Tickets start at $55 Parking $5 Healthy Kids Day Cassell Coliseum, Blacksburg 11 AM - 4 PM All Ages Free

Sunday • May 1 Fit Family Challenge Kick Off Star City Skate Center, Roanoke 1 PM - 5 PM All Ages Free

Community School’s Strawberry Festival Elmwood Park 10 AM - 5:30 PM All Ages Free

May 6&7

Saturday • May 7 Community School’s Strawberry Festival Elmwood Park 10 AM -4 PM All Ages

Elmwood Park

Walk Like MADD Fallon Park 9AM Registration Varies All Ages

BIKE Ready Maintenance By

Community School’s Strawberry Festival

Roanoke APRIL 23 (11-2P)

AT BIG LICK KID FEST AND EARTH DAY

FREE BIKE TUNE-UPS!

(at River’s Edge Park)

Fixing flat tires, squeaky brakes, rusty chains, and more.

Heels f Healing

Friday, April 29 | 4 - 7 p.m. Berglund Center Exhibition Hall

$55 per person | $400 for a table of 8 Designer footwear raffle, wine, live auction, silent auction, heavy hors d’oeuvres and much more.

CarilionClinic.org/CMN